Hairstylist Diploma

The Hairstylist Diploma Program is approved as a Vocational Program under the Ontario Career Colleges Act, 2005. This comprehensive program provides students with the theoretical knowledge and hands-on practical skills required to enter the professional hairstyling industry with confidence and competence.

Delivered in a condensed three-semester format, the program allows students to complete their diploma in less than one year through a progressive combination of classroom instruction and supervised practical training. The curriculum follows a Ministry-approved standard and is supported by the Milady Cosmetology textbook and workbooks, which serve as primary learning and reference resources throughout the program.

Students are introduced to professional legislation, health and safety standards, infection prevention and control, ethical practice, communication skills, and entrepreneurial principles required for successful employment in the hairstyling profession. Emphasis is placed on both technical excellence and professional conduct to ensure graduates are prepared for real-world salon environments.

The program places strong focus on hands-on skill development in all major areas of hairstyling, including cutting, styling, colouring, chemical services, and hair design. Students also receive specialized training in working with diverse hair textures, including advanced cutting, colouring, smoothing, and styling techniques.

With a total duration of 38 weeks, the Hairstylist Diploma Program prepares graduates for careers in a fast-paced and evolving beauty industry.

Core Technical Skills

Graduates will demonstrate competency in:

• Hair cutting and shaping
• Hairstyling and finishing
• Permanent waving and thermal waving
• Chemical relaxing and smoothing
• Hair colouring and toning
• Lightening and bleaching
• Hair extensions and additions
• Braiding and up-dos

Students also gain experience in salon operations, including the use of industry-standard salon software. Training is reinforced through supervised practice in the Salon, Spa, and Boutique, where students provide services to real clients while applying professional standards of hygiene, safety, and customer service.

Professional Outcomes & Certification

Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are granted 1,500 hours toward the 3,500 hours required for apprenticeship in Ontario. Once apprenticeship requirements are met, graduates may write the provincial licensing examination to become certified professional hairstylists.

Graduates may pursue employment as:

• Hairstylist
• Colour Technician
• Salon or Spa Manager
• Beauty Consultant
• Sales Representative for beauty product manufacturers or distributors
• Self-employed salon professional

Employment opportunities exist in salons, spas, health clubs, resorts, cruise ships, beauty institutes, and retail cosmetic environments.

Hairstyling Diploma – Course Subjects

Hair Design

Hair and Scalp Care

Hair Cutting and Styling Techniques

Shampooing, Rinsing and Conditioning

Professional Blow-Drying

Up-Dos, Extensions and Braiding

Permanent, Spiral and Thermal Waving

Hair Colouring and Toning

Bleaching and Tinting

Chemical Hair Relaxing

Hair Additions

Foils – Highlights and Lowlights

Barbering Techniques

Business of Cosmetology

Communicating for Success

Your Professional Image

The Salon Business

Admission Requirements

To be eligible for enrollment, applicants must meet one of the following:

• Grade 12 (Canadian) diploma or equivalent
• OR
• 18 years of age with a passing score on a Superintendent-approved entrance test

All applicants must participate in a personal interview to assess suitability for the program.

Alternative Admission

Applicants who do not meet standard academic requirements may be admitted through an alternative admission assessment, provided evidence of probable success can be demonstrated.

Program Length & Schedule

Full-Time Program

Total Hours: 1,500

Duration: 38 weeks

Schedule: Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.